Wellcome Prize for Mental Health Science with Nature — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about Wellcome Prize for Mental Health Science with Nature — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
What is the primary goal of the Wellcome Prize for Mental Health Science?
The prize aims to champion new, effective interventions for anxiety, depression, and psychosis, accelerating their development, adoption, and policy prioritization, while generating enthusiasm for mental health science among diverse stakeholders.
Who is eligible to apply for this prize?
Eligible applicants include teams from universities, research institutes, hospitals, government or not-for-profit organizations, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), startups, and health-tech companies globally. The focus is on clinically-grounded interventions for specific mental health conditions: anxiety, depression, and psychosis.
Is the funding provided equity-free?
Yes, the Wellcome Prize provides equity-free funding. No equity stake is taken from the winning or finalist teams, allowing them to retain full ownership of their intellectual property and company.
What are the funding amounts for winners and finalists?
One winning team will receive US$1,000,000 (approximately ₹8.33 crore), and three finalist teams will each receive US$250,000 (approximately ₹2.08 crore). These amounts are provided as cash prizes to accelerate the impact and adoption of their work.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is September 18, 2026, at 23:59 UTC. This corresponds to September 19, 2026, at 05:29 AM Indian Standard Time (IST). Late submissions will not be considered.
How do I apply and what documents are needed?
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the official Submittable portal linked on the Nature awards page. You will need to create an account or log in. Required information typically includes a detailed description of your intervention, evidence of its clinical grounding, a plan for development and adoption, and details about your team and organization. A strong application clearly articulates the problem addressed, novelty, potential impact, and scaling strategy.
What types of interventions are being sought?
The prize is looking for new, clinically-grounded interventions specifically targeting anxiety, depression, and psychosis. These can be scientific discoveries, technological innovations, or new approaches to care. The intervention must have potential for real-world application and systemic change.
What are the key dates after the deadline?
Shortlisted candidates will be notified around April 2027, finalists will be announced around May 2027, and the ultimate winner will be announced in June 2027.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Wellcome Prize for Mental Health Science with Nature?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Wellcome Prize for Mental Health Science with Nature, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers Wellcome Prize for Mental Health Science with Nature?
Wellcome Prize for Mental Health Science with Nature is offered by Wellcome, a non-profit foundation. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
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